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Thursday, 16 March 2017

Nicky Philipps: 1 minute without a paint brush.

One minute with Nicky Philipps has given us a lot to think about - a whole list of artists to read up on, a new genre of music to listen to, and an exciting young exhibition to put in the diary for June!

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, oil on canvas, 96" x 60", 2016

1.) Most influential artist on your work & why?

I’m afraid one is not an
option, the list is constantly growing; Van Dyck, Velasquez, Sargent,
Rembrandt, Lawrence, Manet, Monet, William Nicholson, Peploe. There is always something
new to learn.

2.) Favourite medium & why?

Oil, there is such vast range of colours.

3.) Do you listen to music when you paint, if so what
genre?

Country and western. It’s "feel
good" music, it even makes me feel good if a painting isn't quite working.

4.) When you’re not painting what do you most like
doing?

Anything to do with horses. Cook, play
bridge or design things... And travel, except that this can sometimes count as work
because I always take my sketch book.

5.) Favourite Art Collection?

National Portrait Gallery, especially
their early 20th century rooms.

6.) London’s best kept secret?

Rossetti Studios. Although we’re planning
an exhibition for young artists there this summer, so the secret
may not be so well kept after that… Hopefully it will inspire the next generation though.

7.) Dream studio location? A
barn in Chianti.

8.) What portrait are you working on at the moment?

A very funny lady from Dallas who loves
Sargent and country music.

9.) Any (discreet) amusing anecdotes from a
sitting?

I wish I could remember them, but as most of my brain is focusing
on painting the portrait only the most dramatic stories seem to register, and they
will remain secret...

10.) Who would you like to paint next?

My current sitter's husband/family. That
will be proof that she likes her own portrait. Or Dame Edna Everage.

11.) Any tips for young portrait artists starting out? Learn to draw properly.